A much-loved tourist destination located on Aquidneck Island in the state of Rhode Island, the New England gem was once home to famous families like the Vanderbilts, Kennedys, and Astors.
It’s still dotted with beautiful and well-preserved Gilded Age mansions and other reasons to visit include the gorgeous yacht-filled harbor, excellent museums, a vibrant art scene, long stretches of stunning beaches and miles of hiking trails.
It’s also famous for its sailing and the many festivals it hosts throughout the years including America’s Cup the famous annual sailing regatta. Find a unique place to stay to make your break even more special, from cozy boutique inns to glamorous resorts, here are the best cool and unusual hotels in Newport, Rhode Island (in no particular order)...
1. Gurney’s Newport Resort & Marina – a hip, trendy and Instagrammable hotel located on a picturesque private island perfect for Millenials and Gen Zs
Gurneys has opened in a beautiful modernist building which used to house hotels such as Hilton and Hyatt. The trendy hotel boasts a secluded space facing the bay, and guests are constantly reminded, through the amenities provided, of the city’s seafaring roots.
The hotel also offers a sophisticated Italian restaurant and a bright spa, all surrounding a working lighthouse on the property. The infamous Bellevue Avenue and its magnificent mansions are only 2 kilometres away.
The 257 spacious guest rooms at this chic party hotel mostly feature magnificent water views, with lots of sunlight beaming in. The room designs include pale woods against ivory walls, whilst the bathrooms pair granite vanities with op-art wallpaper to compliment their huge walk-in showers.
2. Gilded – a charming, quirky-chic and unique boutique hotel a walk away from the harbour
Beckoning stylish travellers to an irreverent take on the Gilded age, this historic residential home has become a glamorous, renovated 17-room boutique hotel.
The rococo-inspired chic interiors and the bold Beaux Arts reflect the style of the decadent era, whilst the hotel’s location, perfectly backdropped by the glorious New-England coast, gives guests the chance to enjoy all the splendour Newport has to offer.
The dazzling designer guest lounge, striking architectural colour, and private courtyard offer a perfect respite spot for friends and families. The guestrooms come equipped with a variety of high-end pampering amenities to appeal to the discerning heart.
3. Forty 1 North – a modern, elegant and upscale hotel overlooking the Newport Harbor
The first of its kind, the LEED-certified Forty 1 North marries an elegant and casual luxury with the vigour of a downtown historic waterfront setting, topped with a sense of eco-consciousnesses.
State-of-the-art technology and environmentally-friendly amenities constitute the spacious accommodations, adhering to the hotel’s philosophy of responsible consumption and design.
Natural sunlight is welcomed to the rooms through full-length windows and oversized balconies, which offer guests a chance to breathe the fresh seaside breezes and gaze over glorious Newport sunsets.
Those wishing to explore the area’s natural beauty can visit the Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge or Fort Adams State Park, however for those seeking an adrenaline-fuelled adventure, skydiving and water-skiing options are merely a stones-throw away.
To book, check prices or availability for Forty 1 North
4. Newport Marriott – a stylish and sleek boutique hotel perfect for enjoying the city by the sea
This 1980s red-brick building underwent a 2-year renovation, transforming it into a fabulous boutique hotel that pays homage to 1960s modernism and shares a nod to Newport’s yachting history, through many decorative elements imitating sailing.
Newport Marriot is set on Long Wharf, a mere 0.5 miles to the shopping and dining options on Thames Street. One of the quirkiest elements of this hotel is the circular nest of hanging egg seats, reminiscent of an Austin Powers film set.
The hotel also boasts a well-appointed spa offering Swedish and deep tissue methods, treatment rooms, and a relaxation lounge. From the guestrooms, visitors can have either a water, city, or atrium view. All come equipped with cream-on-white décor, grey fabrics, and sail-cloths hung across the headboard wall.
5. Attwater Hotel – a cool, chic and funky hotel where guests can enjoy a relaxing stay
It is no surprise that this intimately sized RI boutique hotel was awarded a Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Award in 2019.
Its youthful energy, bright and spacious accommodations embellished with nautical touches, and luxurious, secluded patio deck, comprises the freshest lodging option in Rhode Island’s favourite resort town.
This design-driven lodge caters to the travellers who want to hike the stunning coastal shore, explore the almost mystical lives of the robber barons, or simply feast on fresh sea catches and delicious local fare.
Guests often return to this hotel year after year, owing to the exceptional amenities, its quaint location in the central historic district, and its atmosphere which is steeped in Newport’s nautical history yet with a bold touch of the unexpected.
To book, check prices or availability for Attwater Hotel
6. Hotel Viking – a stylish, contemporary and classic hotel surrounded by Newport attractions
The extraordinary building which houses Hotel Viking is every bit as monumental as its hospitality, with unexpected features, unique events, and architectural details waiting to be discovered.
Dating back to 1926, the grand red brick Federal-style exterior blends with various contemporary interior designs, and memorable experiences are tailored at every touchpoint.
The 66 rooms and suites in the Historic Wing, and the 242 rooms in the Newport Wing are all elegantly furnished with silvery wallpaper and plush grey carpeting, and further characteristics vary between rooms.
The bathrooms have huge walk-in showers with rain showerheads, whilst some have Louis Quinze-esque curved, elm green marble topped wood vanity. The sheer grandeur of this unique, quirky hotel makes it a fan favourite in Rhode Island.
To book, check prices or availability for Hotel Viking
7. The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection – a modern style, historic hotel featuring fine dining and a magnificent spa and great views
Transport yourself to a point in time, when artists and poets drank absinthe, to this historic downtown mansion inspired by the insatiable wanderlust and rebellious spirit of Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt.
The hotel, once owned by the businessman, has seen a re-interpretation for the modern era and is now a bustling social destination in itself. Tucked into a corner of the sumptuous Doris Duke-inspired parlour, this hotel boasts a secret bar.
The foyer and lounge also boast specially-commissioned and mysterious old world vibes. It is fair to say, the scene at this one-of-a-kind hotel is crackling with alluring eccentricities and coastal curiosities waiting to be discovered.
8. The Chanler at Cliff Walk – an upscale, historic, boutique accommodation located on the famed Cliff Walk
Gilded elegance and gracious hospitality provide a tailored experience at The Chanler. A private oasis of manicured gardens, breath-taking ocean vistas, or a star-lit drink by the crackling fire pit, offer a new world of unparalleled serenity.
The stunning boutique property is housed in a mansion on Newport’s famed Cliff Walk, and therefore fuses contemporary quietude with Newport’s historic past.
The 20 guestrooms and villas feature custom linens and upholstery, made with distinguished designs and all encompass an aspect of Newport’s rich history. Rooms are thoughtfully furnished, whether you choose the seaside peacefulness of the Nantucket Ocean Villa or the quaint charm of the Williamsburg room.
To book, check prices or availability for The Chanler
9. Castle Hill Inn – an upscale and quiet accommodation with breathtaking panoramic views
This luxuriously laid-back inn evokes the grandness of the olden times, blended with a sophisticated personalized service, and is set within 40 acres of coastal paradise.
The great attention to detail and world-class cuisine on offer, are just some of the reasons why this gracious Relais & Chateaux inn is incredibly sought-after.
Guests can choose from cosy cottages or stunning beach houses, with special touches ranging from soothing tubs to gas fireplaces, to elevate your special Rhode Island getaway.
The views of the Narragansett Bay are cherished by the visitors, who can also enjoy light-hearted alfresco meals on the lawn. All products are made with organically grown herbs and flowers from American family farms.
10. Serenity Inn Newport – a European-style inspired, sleek and fancy hotel providing guests with a delicious homemade breakfast
Serenity Inn, housed in an elegant Victorian house, was built in 1855 on the first gas-lit street in America. The property is currently on the National Historic Register, and was formerly known as the Adele Turner Inn.
A team of talented innkeepers provide guests with a delicious homemade breakfast every morning at this quirky Rhode Island Inn, which sits quietly amid two and three-century old homes, within one of the state’s historic neighbourhoods.
The property is framed by 27 distinctive round-top windows, and showcases a luxurious collection of 12 distinctively and thoughtfully designed guest rooms. The hotel certainly lives up to its name, and offers the perfect family retreat.
11. The Newport Harbor Hotel & Marina – a beautiful, cool and relaxing hotel steps away from the waterfront
This luxurious hotel is bordered by historical cobblestone streets and world-famous yachts, whilst also neighbouring all which downtown Newport has to offer in the pinnacle of the harbourside.
The Newport Harbor Hotel & Marinafeatures eco-friendly amenities, combined with a fantastic hospitality experience, in the heart of downtown Newport. The hotel offers kayaks, paddleboards, and bikes for those wishing to spend their days delving into the surrounding nature.
The lawn games, and the community firepit, also offer a unique chance to meet fellow travellers and share stories. An indoor saltwater heated pool is a prominent feature of this hotel, allowing guests to soak up after a busy day out, and before overlooking Newport Harbour from the sundeck.
12. Newport Bay Club and Hotel – a rustic chic, charming hotel situated in the heart of downtown Newport
Newport Bay Club and Hotelis favourably housed in a grand Victorian building, yet embellished with a contemporary interior. Nestled between the shores of Newport Harbour and the gracious boutiques of Thames Street, this inspired vacation home boasts a unique design with nautically-inspired accommodations.
The one and two-bedroom suites sleep either 4 or 6 guests, and are a highly popular choice for couples and families. Furthermore, the two-bedroom town-houses feature sweeping harbour views, and an instant dose of sea and sky.
Conveniently located in the heart of downtown, yet within walking distance to First Beach and the Mansions, no other hotel brings you closer to the bounty and beauty of Newport.
13. Marshall Slocum Inn – a classic and charming boutique hotel with individually themed rooms
The Marshall Slocum Inn, in their 42nd season of operation, proudly welcomes visitors to the wonderful and charming city of Newport. Set in a historic 1855 Colonial building, the Inn’s heritage has been preserved, while providing a comforting service with a personalized touch.
It is no surprise that this Inn was named in Yankee Magazine’s “Best of New England – Editors’ Choice” as the best Rhode Island Boutique Hotel. Nautical artwork, period antiques, lush linens and Gilchrist and Soames toiletries ornate the spacious guestrooms, whilst some rooms also feature whirlpools and living rooms.
Over an acre of tree-lined grounds encircle the property, which features a large back deck overlooking manicured gardens, and a relaxing front porch.
14. Jailhouse Inn – a historic and delightful hotel offering tea and fresh-baked cookies every afternoon
This hotel is incredibly exclusive. Built in 1772, it is a charming, comfortable adaptation of Newport’s historic jail and police station. A casual attitude is paired with first-rate guestrooms and amenities typical of a high-end hotel, helping guests to instantly feel at home.
A colourful history is reflected in the 23 guestrooms, which have been reconfigured to offer a variety of spacious sleeping arrangements with modern conveniences.
All come with private baths, a mini-fridge, amongst many more comfortable amenities. The hotel sits within easy walking distance to a wide array of shops, restaurants, neighbourhoods, and historic attractions. A truly unique, state-of-the-art experience is on offer at the Jailhouse Inn.
To book, check prices or availability for Jailhouse Inn
15. Yankee Peddler Inn – a cute and romantic boutique inn where guests can experience the charm of Newport
Boasting an ideal in-town location, just a few blocks from the waterfront and Bellevue Avenue, this Inn is an oasis of calm, comfortable, and casual charm.
Originally built in the 1800s for a Boston mariner and naval officer, this early Victorian home offers 19 guestrooms across 3 floors. All rooms feature a private bath, air conditioning, and a flat-screen TV.
One of the stand-out elements of this unique hotelis its affiliation with the Classic Cruises of Newport. Daytime and sunset boat cruises aboard the sailing Schooner Madeleine or vintage motor yacht Rum Runner II are on offer, as well as harbour cruises.
My first true adventure began as a six month voyage around South East Asia as a fresh faced backpacker and ever since I’ve lived a semi nomadic existence, clocking up visits to over 40 countries. I’m a lover of US Road Trips, deserted beaches bathed in warm glow of a sunset, Cuban mojitos, travel destinations far away from the tourist crowds and all things Scandinavian – from cloudberry liquors to Nordic noirs. When not wandering the world and running Global Grasshopper, you’ll find me walking my rescued Greek street dog in leafy South West London, strolling around the Brighton Lanes on random day trips, hunting for photogenic landscapes or daydreaming about my favourite places; Havana, Copenhagen, Italy, Laos, California and the surreally beautiful landscapes of a wintry Iceland.
